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Air Fryer Mug Brownie - A Fast, Fudgy Treat for One

Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time8 minutes
Total Time13 minutes
Servings: 1 servings

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour – For structure and a soft crumb.
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder – Natural or Dutch-process both work.
  • Granulated sugar – Sweetness and moisture.
  • Brown sugar (optional) – Adds a hint of caramel and extra fudginess.
  • Baking powder – A little lift without becoming cakey.
  • Salt – Balances flavors.
  • Milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy) – Binds the batter.
  • Neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or light olive oil) – Keeps it moist.
  • Vanilla extract – Rounds out the chocolate flavor.
  • Chocolate chips or chunks – For gooey pockets of chocolate.
  • Optional toppings – Flaky sea salt, chopped nuts, peanut butter, or a scoop of ice cream.

Instructions

  • Choose the right mug or ramekin: Use a microwave-safe and oven-safe mug or a 6–8 ounce ramekin that fits in your air fryer basket. Ceramic or stoneware works best. Avoid very tall mugs that block air circulation.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 320°F (160°C) for 3 minutes. Preheating helps the brownie cook evenly.
  • Mix the dry ingredients: In your mug, add 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional), 1/8 teaspoon baking powder, and a small pinch of salt. Stir well to break up any cocoa clumps.
  • Add the wet ingredients: Pour in 3 tablespoons milk, 2 tablespoons neutral oil, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir until the batter is smooth and glossy. Scrape the bottom and sides so no dry pockets remain.
  • Fold in chocolate: Mix in 1–2 tablespoons chocolate chips. Keep a few for the top if you want a shiny, melty finish.
  • Air fry: Place the mug or ramekin in the basket. Cook at 320°F (160°C) for 7–9 minutes. Start checking at 7 minutes. The top should look set but slightly shiny, with a soft center that jiggles a bit.
  • Rest: Let it sit for 2–3 minutes. The residual heat will finish setting the brownie while keeping the middle fudgy.
  • Finish and serve: Sprinkle with a pinch of flaky salt, add a scoop of ice cream, or swirl in a teaspoon of peanut butter. Enjoy warm.